Date Approved
8-9-2024
Graduate Degree Type
Project
Degree Name
Education-Literacy Studies: Reading (M.Ed.)
Degree Program
Literacy, Educational Foundations, & Technology
First Advisor
Elizabeth Petroelje Stolle, Ph.D.
Academic Year
2023/2024
Abstract
Students are entering 4th grade well below grade level in reading, and the reading achievement gap continues to grow every year. When students are below grade level it can lead to other subject areas being more difficult on the student. The main factors of students struggling to read are low motivation to read and the lack of phonemic awareness. This project provides research explaining why students are below grade level and the best ways to address these problems. Teachers have the ability to aid students in reaching grade level when it comes to reading. Next, the project addresses strategies and activities teachers can use in the classroom in order to close the reading gap. When addressing the lack of motivation, teachers need to take into consideration more time reading, background knowledge, choice and interest, collaboration, and a positive classroom environment. Teaching phonemic awareness while reading, targeting specific needs, and using small groups are the ways this project will provide research on. If students' needs are not met before entering middle school, these students are in danger of falling even further behind.
ScholarWorks Citation
Johnson, Carly L., "Decreasing the Reading Gap in Upper Elementary" (2024). Culminating Experience Projects. 508.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/gradprojects/508
